Poland: Big hopes meet old frustrations yet window opens for reform
In 2025, Poland’s iGaming sector saw intensified institutional activity and political debate, but no structural breakthrough in liberalising the market or effectively reducing the grey economy. Despite new initiatives such as a dedicated gambling department, interministerial task forces and increased pressure on payment service providers, the regulatory approach continued to rely on blocking and enforcement rather than improved channelisation. Key developments included stalled proposals to legalise poker, a controversial attempt to increase tax on winnings (ultimately vetoed), and growing scrutiny of payment flows to illegal operators. The most forward-looking change is the draft amendment to the Gambling Act introducing “games for virtual goods” (loot boxes) as a licensed gambling activity, signalling a stronger focus on protecting minors and closing long-standing regulatory gaps.